By Angela Caputo
Chicago Sun Times
Copyright 2006 Chicago Sun-Times, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
As they stood Sunday collecting cash at busy intersections for the Oak Lawn Fire Department’s annual boot drive, two volunteers were struck by metal darts, which police believe were fired from blow guns.
Now officers are looking for anyone who may have witnessed the incidents about 3 p.m. at the corner of 95th and Cicero in the southwest suburb.
The first victim, a fire department battalion chief, brushed off the sharp pain he felt in his calf, figuring he had been struck by a flying stone.
But when the 41-year-old firefighter looked down, he found that a 4-inch dart had pierced his boot and leg, according to police.
Amid the heavy traffic, he was unable to identify its source.
“We’re hoping someone saw something and will give us a call,” said Lt. Keith Raspovich.
The victim was taken to Advocate Christ Hospital, treated for minor injuries and released, police said.
6-Inch Needle Found
Minutes later, a 15-year-old volunteer who, along with his father, was collecting money at 107th and Cicero, also was targeted.
The teen was walking south on Cicero when he felt a sharp stinging in his left thigh.
He looked down and found a 6-inch needle lying on the pavement. His skin was not punctured and he declined medical attention.